USFS News Release - Hermosa Trails impacted

News Release

HERMOSA TRAILS TO BE IMPACTED BY BLASTING OPERATIONS THIS WEEK AND NEXT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DURANGO, Colorado –August 8, 2017 – Blasting operations will be taking placethis week and next week in the Hermosa Creek Special Management Area as part of construction activities for the Hermosa Creek Confluence Fish Barrier. When blasting operations occur, the Hermosa Creek Trail and West Cross Trail will be closed for up to two-hour intervals. Exact timing will be dependent on weather and other factors. U.S. Forest Service personnel will be onsite to discuss the project with trail users and to ensure the public remains a safe distance from blasting operations.

The fish-barrier construction project will continue through early October, with temporary closures on these trails, as needed. Public notices will be posted when trail closures are expected. The fish-migration barrier is being installed on the main stem of Hermosa Creek downstream of its confluence with the East Fork of Hermosa Creek. It represents the final and most important phase of the Hermosa Creek Colorado River Cutthroat Trout Reintroduction Project, which began almost 30 years ago. The goal is to protect native cutthroat trout above the barrier from non-native fish located downstream.

For more information, please contact the Columbine Ranger District at 970 884-2512.